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Stoke v Arsenal preview

Robert Huth is poised to make a timely return to action for Stoke in their home date with Arsenal after a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

The German defender underwent knee surgery in November, but has battled his way back to join the end of season run-in and should slot immediately back into Mark Hughes' starting XI alongside skipper Ryan Shawcross.

Matthew Etherington, Stephen Ireland, John Guidetti and Andy Wilkinson all appeared alongside Huth in a behind-closed-doors friendly date with Burnley on Tuesday, so could all be involved against the Gunners. Oussama Assaidi is, however, still missing with a knee complaint.

German playmaker Mesut Ozil will return for Arsenal after hip trouble and a two-day rest.

Gunners boss Wenger will leave a decision on whether or not to field fit-again defender Thomas Vermaelen at left-back to the last minute.

Nacho Monreal (ankle) and Kieran Gibbs (gluteus) both remain doubtful, and if neither make it back in time for the Potters clash, Wenger could deploy Vermaelen, fully recovered from a shin problem, on the left of his defence.